Whales and Dolphins

Watching Whales and Dolphins

Guest of Carleton Village have a few different options available to the if the wish to see Whales or Dolphins.

Whales and Dolphins By Land:

There has been a rapid growth in dolphin watching in Ireland during the past decade. The most frequently sighted species is the Short-beaked Common Dolphin and the Bottlenose Dolphin. These are resident around Ireland and may be seen all year round off the south and west coast.During the summer months Dolphins are regular visitors to Youghal Harbour and can be seen up as far as the Youghal bridge. The dolphins feed on mackerel and during the summer, particularly late summer Youghal celebrates the famous mackerel run which see the entire harbour turn silver with the abundance of fish. As the dolphins can not resist this tasty treat they come following the food and create a stunning spectacle in the harbour.

Ardmore Cliffs are the perfect vantage point to see migrating whales and over the last year the spot has become a ‘Fin Whale Phenomenon’ with numerous sightings of this wonderful creature just off the cliff side.

Ballycotton and Cliffs

Ballycotton Village is nestled around a small, still operating fishing harbour and much to the the fishermans dismay the common seal can often be seen both inside and outside the harbour walls. Venture along the Ballycotton Cliffs which again is a great vantage point from which to see the Whales, Dolphins and the harbour porpoise

Whales and Dolphins By Boat

Whale of a Time is based in Cork Harbour.

Whale & Dolphin watching excursions will operate from Cork Harbour. The duration of the trip will be 3-4 hours. Searches will be in waters from in and around Ram Head to the Old Head of Kinsale. The waters off Ram Head have long been recognised as one of the best locations for sightings in Ireland.

For more information on Whales and Dolphins Contact Youghal Tourist Office on 00353 2490044.